Analysis of Civic Activity as an Element Shaping Local Level Threat Resilience in Communities

Karina Gorska-Rozej
European Research Studies Journal, Volume XXIV, Special Issue 1, 565-580, 2021
DOI: 10.35808/ersj/2060

Abstract:

Purpose: The main objective is to determine the essence of civic activity in shaping resilience to threats in communities at the local level using the example of a municipality. Approach/Methodology/Design: A diagnostic poll method was used, carried out by means of a survey technique, with the use of a survey questionnaire tool. The Statistica v.13.1 software package was used to develop the survey results. The general population included the residents of Nowa Iwiczna, located in the Lesznowola municipality in the Mazovian Voivodeship in Polnad. The size of the research sample was 1351 people. Findings: Self-governance has been developing for more than two decades and local communities still have a problem with a mediocre sense of civic responsibility. Therefore, cooperation of communities with their authorities (representatives) at the local level is justified and necessary. Moreover, it is very often an elementary point in addressing threats. Probably the problem stems from the lack of proper civic education (one can say that it starts at an early age), low level of civic competence of the community at the local level and disturbed communication at the level of residents-inhabitants and residents-local authorities. Practical Implications: It is worthwhile for the local authority to consider the so-called local action plans in the general strategy of community development. In turn, the citizens should fully exercise the rights granted to them, but also remember the so-called civic duties, the conscientious fulfilment of which may lead to the improvement of their functioning in each area, elimination of problems or efficient problem solving, improvement of communication, and increase of the level of security. Originality/Value: The argument proving the strength and essence of the indicated topic of the scientific article is not its niche character - on the contrary - it is the widespread interest of the scientific and administrative community and the society itself. Arguing that the functioning of local communities requires special attention from the scientific community, I assume that the research I have conducted, apart from cognitive value, is also characterized by pragmatism and utilitarianism. Research findings can be used by stakeholders to build a resilient local community.


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